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AIRF RCE September 21, 2017 News 3 leading the charge A IR Force and Defence industry recently marked the delivery of enhanced aircrew training capabilities that are critical and essential to sustaining our combat force. Personnel from No. 76 Squadron and RAAF Base Williamtown came together with BAE Systems team representatives at a ceremony on July 5 to acknowledge the Initial Operating Capability (IOC) for the Hawk Lead-In Fighter Capability Assurance Program (LIFCAP). The program’s key purpose is to deliver an upgraded fleet of BAE Systems Hawk aircraft coupled with three, modern full mission simulators (with development supported by CAE), which provide enhanced training capabilities for RAAF aircrew. Executive Officer No. 78 Wing WGCDR Carlos Almenara said the IOC ceremony marked the delivery of new capabilities that were critical and essential to sustaining our combat force. He said the Lead-in Fighter Training System (LIFTS) underpinned air combat capability for Air Force. “Air Combat Group is currently in the midst of a transition towards becoming a fully-fledged fifth generation capability with the introduction of the F/A-18F Super Hornet, the EA-18G Growler and soon the F-35A,” WGCDR Almenara said. ‘The range of additional simulated on-board systems available through LIFCAP provide flexibility to adapt LIF training to the future needs of operational conversion courses. “These enhancements range from high fidel- ity radar, data-link, RWR, missile simulation and countermeasures through to simulated surface to air missile sites, a ground proximity warning system, new planning and debrief systems as well as ACMI. “All are valuable additions to our capability.” Additionally, WGCDR Almenara said while greater training efficiencies were delivered in the new on-board aircraft mission systems, upgraded training capabilities were also supporting vital aircrew training on the ground. “The simulator enhancements are a major component of LIF support now and for future platforms, allowing aircrew in training and their instructors to download key elements of the system previously only achievable in the airborne environment,” WGCDR Almenara said. “The support tools and debrief systems will also allow greater fidelity in post-flight learning in order to maximise value from each sortie and hopefully minimise the need for re-training.” Importantly, the upgrade also provides the ability to train to a full spectrum of missions across the range of Air Force operational fast jet platforms. Top: BAE Systems test pilot, Andy Blythe (front) and No. 78 Wing test pilot SQNLDR Michael Physick conduct preflight checks before their first flight in the modified Hawk 127. Photo: Darren Mottram Left: OC Tactical Fighter Systems Program Office GPCAPT David Langlois (centre), signs the Initial Operating Capability recognition certificate with Acting Officer Commanding 78WG WGCDR Carlos Almenara, and head of engineering product development BAE Systems United Kingdom, Steve Heard, at 76SQN. Photo: CPL Nicci Freeman Training our air combat force just got more cutting edge thanks to world-class enhancements, FLTLT Bettina Mears writes “It allows us to transition elements of the syl- labus towards a ‘sim-to-solo’ training system in preparation for F-35A conversion requirements,” WGCDR Almenara said. Director of Air Combat Training Operations at TFSPO (Tactical Fighter Systems Program Office), Matt Hall, said industry partners and Air Force personnel and staff worked in close collaboration on the project since its inception. “TFSPO began management of the project in November 2011 with the development of an Integrated Project Team – which essentially supported communications with BAE Systems UK, BAE Systems Australia, together with the 78WG transition team. ‘‘The success of the project is a testament to the individuals who actively worked within this structure to deliver the outcome we are celebrating today,” Mr Hall said. BAE Systems initially drew on the Royal Air Force (RAF) Hawk aircraft model as a baseline for LIFCAP, according to Head of Engineering - Product Development, BAE Systems UK (Military and Air Information), Steve Heard. “Tailored modifications were developed and progressively evolved the Hawk fleet over time – however, in the case of LIFCAP, we developed the upgrade specifically to meet RAAF requirements with a view for supporting multiple platforms including the new capabilities such as the F-35A,” Mr Heard said. “With upgraded aircraft itself, together with the installation of state of the art, world-class Hawk simulators here at Williamtown and at RAAF Base Pearce, I don’t think we have better training capabilities anywhere else in the world.” LIFCAP project manager, BAE Systems UK, Ms Ruth Nicolls said more than 60 specialists were engaged on the project which provided key outcomes – taking aircrew training to the next level. “All credit to both the Commonwealth and industry who have worked enthusiastically, effectively and passionately with a ‘one-team’ spirit in addressing challenges and finding solutions in support of the delivery of a world class training system,” Ms Nicolls said. “It has been a privilege to work alongside the incredibly talented, motivated and dedicated individuals within industry and the commonwealth and in particular the Royal Australian Air Force who have made the LIFCAP vision a reality.” Considered to be some of the most advanced Hawk aircraft in service today, a joint team of BAE Systems and RAAF technicians have completed the upgrade of 12 of the 33 fleet of aircraft as part of the project. The delivery of the final LIFTS simulator will be at the end of 2017. Tax Agent No. 60695009 Specialising in income tax returns for Defence personnel for over 30 years. $ RECEIVE* OFF when you lodge your 2017 return using our defence questionnaire online 25 AUSTAXQLD.COM.AU COUPON CODE: ADF2017 1300 36 65 29 *Terms & Conditions apply. Offer only valid for returns submitted before 31/10/2017 online. Must use coupon code at time of your initial questionnaire submission to be eligible for discount